Latest Technologies in Japan Auto Industry

Latest Technologies in Japan Auto Industry

Latest Technologies in Japan Auto Industry

One of the most commonly used products in daily life is motor vehicles, yet is most complicated and requires complex technologies for development. Along with the technologies and methods used for manufacturing of vehicles, supplier industries for steel and other parts also plays a very vital role in developing of components that are used for manufacturing motor vehicles. The Japanese automobile industry is one of the most prominent and largest industries in the world. Since 1960s, after surpassing Germany, Japan has been among top three automakers in the world. The country is home to a number of companies such as Toyota, Honda, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Isuzu and many more.

A large amount of time and money are invested in developing and improving the manufacturing process, which in turn increase the quality and efficiency of products manufactured. Over the past many years, considerable technological advancement has taken place, which has changed and reinvented the manufacturing process of motor vehicles. The strong competition in the automobile market has forced automakers to come with a new design every four to five years. To increase the performance capability of the vehicle and to create innovative designs, new technologies are used by automakers. These developments have led to unique and innovative designs for future automobiles. In order to control the dependency on fuels and designing vehicles that are more efficient, Japanese automakers have built hybrid vehicles, fuel-cell vehicles. With the increase in the production and usage of environmentally friendly vehicles, more automakers are getting engaged in this production line.

Various technologies are incorporated by manufacturers to keep drivers and other passengers safe and offer them comfortable and enjoyable driving. Once available on top-of-the-line luxury vehicles only, many of the features are now available on family cars also. Some of the latest technologies included by Japanese makers in their vehicles-

Electric Powered Vehicles

An electric car is an automobile that uses electrical energy stored in batteries instead of petroleum or gasoline. Electric motors present in electric cars give instant torque, creating strong and smooth acceleration. During oil crises, people diverted towards electric cars to use as an alternate of fuels. Even nowadays, these vehicles are popular due to ever increasing oil prices and environment pollution. Top automakers such as Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are already in this sector with their automobiles.

Electric Steering vehicles

With this technology, steering is assisted by an electric motor rather than by hydraulic pressure. This enhances fuel-efficiency since the steering assistance does not place any load on the engine.

Hybrid Powered Vehicles

Hybrid cars are those cars, which uses two or more distinct power sources to move the car. It uses a mix of energy sources, typically electric motors with traditional internal combustion engines. With the production of gas-electric hybrid, people moved away from complete reliance on the internal combustion engine.

Hybrid vehicles are highly fuel efficient and present the first major step toward fuel cell vehicles, according to industry specialists. Japanese automaker, Toyota Motors is one of the auto industry leaders in hybrid vehicle research and production with its Prius model. Other makers are also making their way in the manufacturing of hybrid vehicles, by designing passenger cars as well as pickups. Many hybrid vehicles are already in the market by Japanese makers and many are waiting to get launched.

Fuel Cell Vehicles

A Fuel Cell Vehicle is equipped with a “Fuel Cell” in which electricity is generated through chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to power the motor. As a gasoline substitute for fuel, in particular hydrogen has been chosen. Fuel cell systems operate by compressing hydrogen made from natural gas and gasoline, which is then converted to hydrogen by on-board systems.

Many automakers across the world are investing heavily in the development of fuel cell systems. For instance, General Motors with collaboration with Daimler Chrysler have invested in order to develop hydrogen fuel cell technology. Even though these vehicles are environmentally friendly and will contribute a lot in the development of automobile industry, but still they will face challenges in developing of hydrogen fueling station that supports the use of fuel cell vehicles.

Innovation and leadership have been the gift of Japanese automobile sectors from the beginning. Japanese automakers have a solid track record of building reliable cars for decades. To satisfy the strong demand for vehicles, Japanese automobile manufacturers are increasing their production. Nowadays, more emphasis is being given on environmentally friendly vehicles. Many fuels efficient and new ultra-efficient vehicles are already on the road, and still there are expectations for rapid improvement in this area. Electric vehicles plays vital role in reducing dependence on fuels and improving air-quality. Many automakers are investing heavily to come up with better and affordable technologies in their vehicles. The automobile sector of Japan is very vast and it keeps on increasing day by day. Every year Japanese automakers come up with new technologies to give drivers and other occupant pleasurable driving experience.